Deadlines approach for sending packages to troops

Holiday airlift packages to troops at war wanted by Friday

Deadlines loom for those sending holiday packages, cards and letters to military personnel stationed in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The U.S. Postal Service recommends sending packages by Friday for those that will be airlifted. December 11th is the last day the postal service recommends sending packages using First Class and Priority Mail and December 18th is the last day recommended for Express Mail for overseas military addresses.

The postal service is offering a Priority Mail APO/FPO large flat rate box (measuring 12 inches by 12 inches and 5 1/2 inches deep), for $11.95.

The postal service expects to process more than 30 million pounds destined for overseas military destinations during November and December.

“We’re encouraging folks who want to ship overseas to take advantage of the most reasonable rates and to ship early,” said U.S. Postal Service spokesman Dave Lewin. “The earlier you ship, the more affordable it will be.”

Lewin said the military mailing deadlines are suggestions, but the postal service encourages mailing holiday packages soon to ensure proper delivery.

Karen Massie, president of the Spartanburg Chapter of Blue Star Mothers, said the group assembled 200 holiday packages filled with Christmas candy, personal products, small Christmas trees, letters and children’s artwork, socks, games and other donated items. Massie complimented the Church Street post office for processing the packages in about one and a half hours.

Massie said the packages were sent to local troops and to soldiers who receive little support from home.